Today was the first and the last AAC media days. Our Cardinals were voted a unanimous favorite to win their one season in the conference. It was pretty much a no brainer that a team that went 11-2, won the Allstate Sugar Bowl and returns 14 starters would be the favorite. The Cardinals received 28 of a possible 30 first-place votes and had 298 points in the preseason voting of media representatives. Cincinnati received the other two first-place votes and had 257 points. That should make that “Keg of Nails” battle even more interesting at the end of the season. I’ve said it all along that game will be the biggest of the season.

Believe it or not folks this is going to be a competitive league. The top five teams in the preseason poll either won or shared their league’s regular-season championship last season. Our Cardinals will have to bring it every weekend to keep their dream alive. Nobody echoed that sentiment more than Charlie Strong today. His theme has remained very consistent and is one of playing hungry and staying humble. His final comment at the podium today pretty much said it all:

COACH STRONG: “The theme for us is going to be either we’re growing or we’re dying. If we’re growing, we’re trying to get better each and every day and we’re trying to improve the program.”

“If we’re dying, we’ll be at the program that’s just going to want to maintain. We don’t want to get better. We’ll become complacent. And that’s what we can’t do. We can’t become complacent. We can’t be self-absorbed, or we get cocky. We get arrogant. Because there’s still a lot of questions and this team still has a lot of room for improvement.”

“Like I said, we’re nowhere near where we should be and we can get better. You look at the games we lost last year, we’re sitting there, we’re playing pretty good. We’re 8-0. We go to Syracuse, they slap us pretty good. We come back at home against Connecticut. They beat us. Then we had to go into a game where we have to go win on the road against Rutgers.”

“I tell them all the time, guys, the measuring stick of this team is going to be measured to that Florida game. And we played very well in that game. So now everyone is going to expect you to play each game the way you played in that game, and it’s not going to happen.”

“So let’s not get full of ourselves and let’s not think that we have all the answers because the moment you do, you will walk into a game, you’ll get into a week where you won’t practice well and you’ll go get it put on you pretty good. And then that would be a wake-up call.”

“We don’t need any wake-up calls. We need to hit the alarm button before somebody comes in there and puts it on us really good.”

“So it’s about us making sure we maintain our focus. And the preparation has to be there, the commitment has to be there, the right attitude.”

“Our players need to have an attitude of each and every week, that attitude of myself, I want to go get better as a coach, as a player, as a whole program. And if that happens within our program then we have a chance. But we have to make sure that that happens and it happens each and every day. And if that happens, then we’ll be able to carry it on through the year.”

It’s one thing to have a team full of athletes that are capable of reaching greatness, but having a coach like Charlie Strong leading them is icing on the cake. I don’t know if we will go undefeated this season but I do know that our guys will give it their best shot and I know coach Strong will make sure of that.

Today coach Strong met with the media to talk about his team as they get ready to take the field tomorrow at 1:00PM in Papa Johns Cardinal stadium for the annual Spring Game. He mentioned that most people think the number 13 was an unlucky number but that it could be a very lucky number for his football team this year. Strong was very enthusiastic talking about his guys and the opportunities they have this year. Coach Strong says that leadership, consistency and execution will be the keys to reaching their goals this season. Louisville’s priorities this spring have been refining conference offensive player of the year and potential Heisman Trophy candidate Teddy Bridgewater, solving the backfield riddle, and finding a new left tackle and center to replace All-Big East performers Alex Kupper and Mario Benavides. This looks to be another great football season and one that could take this program to another level from where it went last season. Get out and support the football team tomorrow as they take the field for the last time this spring.

CS: “The 1st year in the program was more about them learning who we were as coaches. Now they know and they understand it’s about executing.”
CS: “Consistency. Will we show up to play? No matter who we’re playing, will we show up to play? It’s all about being consistent.”
CS: “The key for us this year will be the leadership… where is the leadership going to come from? You have the guys, but who will lead?”

SPRING DEPTH CHART OFFENSE:

Here are some of the quotes about this group today:

CS: “It’s been pleasant to see the return of Dominique Brown. He’s been running the ball well this spring.”
CS: “The wide receiver position is probably the strength of our football team.”
CS: “Teddy just keeps better and better and better.”
CS: “To run the football, we know the game has to be won up front. Last Mario and Kupper were the anchors. We have to find that anchor.”
CS: “We’re going to let Teddy go & play, but we also want to let the 2 young guys get experience in front of a crowd. We must find a backup.”
CS: “Teddy doesn’t want to let people down and he doesn’t want all of the attention. He wants to win first and foremost.”
CS: “I like the way Teddy throws the football and he doesn’t turn the football over. You can count on him to play well.”
CS: “You have to pound people with the running game. You saw it in the Sugar Bowl as it worked to get more yards in the 2nd half.”

SPRING DEPTH CHART DEFENSE:

Here are some of the quotes about this group today:

CS: “On defense, we only lose one starter. We’ve had some injuries but we have experience.”
CS: “I dont know if there’s a player on the team that goes harder than Lorenzo Mauldin does.”
CS: “We expect a lot out of Preston Brown. We expect him to be our leader on defense.”
CS: “We probably have the two best safeties in the conference in Hakeem Smith and Calvin Pryor.”
CS: “Our players have to understand it’s all about competing. Our def goes against best QB in the country. That should make everyone better.”

SPRING DEPTH CHART SPECIAL TEAMS:

Coach Strong also talked about his team being able to stay humble this season a midst their lofty expectations. And he even mentioned that he could show them the video of the Syracuse game from last year. Coach closed out today talking about the Basketball team and how impressed he was with the fan support. Lets not let coach down tomorrow and get to those seats early and cheer on these guys. The basketball teams will also be honored at half time tomorrow and fans will get a chance to take a picture with the Championship trophy. Oh yea and 1$ beers.

CS: “When you have teamwork and you have sacrifice, you’re going to get your championship. That’s what the MBB team had this season.”
CS: “What we can’t do is become our own worst enemy. You can’t talk too much about winning Sugar Bowl.”
CS: “What I can do is always bring back Syracuse game film from last year and I did that last week. That keeps guys humble.”

Next week our Louisville Cardinal Football team will play its most important game of the season as the program makes its very first appearance in the Sugar Bowl. At the beginning of the football season Cards fans were asked to “Get on the Train.” That train ride has been a fun one but it has had a few bumps along the way. Now as that train is prepared to make its final stop in New Orleans at the Sugar Bowl I want to look back at all those stops along the way and then make my prediction about how this journey will end.

-Stop #1 September 2nd University of Kentucky:

The “Battle of the Bluegrass” really wasn’t much of a battle at all as most had predicted. It was the battle of two football programs going in very different directions. The Cardinals outclassed the Cats in every aspect of this game talent, coaching, and execution. Louisville established offensive dominance early starting the game with some monster scoring drives of 99, 85 and 93 yards. The Cards scored 5 times on their first 7 drives. UK started off with an impressive drive of its own but just didn’t have the fire power to match Louisville’s intensity. Coach Strong put this game in cruise control in the 3rd quarter putting in his back-up QB Will Stein. Louisville was lead by Teddy Bridgewater who had 232 yards passing, Jeremy Wright who had 105 yards with 3 TD’s, and Senorise Perry who had 108 yards with 1 TD. Cardinals ended a three game home losing streak to Kentucky. Beating the Cats for the second year in a row 32-14 and the Governor’s Cup remained where it belongs in the Louisville trophy case.

-Stop #2 September 8th The Missouri State Bears:

Teddy QB had a career day completing 30 of 39 passes 344 yards and touchdowns to tight ends Nate Nord and Ryan Hubbell. He would connect with 10 different receivers to help keep the Cardinals in control throughout the day. Louisville racked up 475 yards of total offense and was a combined 11 of 17 converting on third and fourth downs. Charles Gaines had a game-high 73 yards including a 55-yard deep ball in his first time seeing action for the Cards. Eli Rogers had six receptions. Senorise Perry led the team in rushing again this week with 72 yards and one touchdown. The Cardinal defense did its part as well, holding the MSU offense to just 249 yards of total offense on the day. UofL was really effective in stoping the Bears’ rushing attack, limiting MSU to 99 yards on 31 carries. Calvin Pryor led the defense with eight tackles and one interception. Lorenzo Mauldin had one sack. Missouri St did provide some competitive spirit but they were no match for a stingy Louisville defense and offense that wouldn’t disappoint as QB Teddy Bridgewater lead the team to a solid victory 35-7.

-Stop #3 September 15th The University of North Carolina Tarheels:

Louisville once again looked very impressive in this one beating a solid ACC team in North Carolina. Louisville built a 39-14 lead before slipping into conservative zone coverage in the fourth quarter and giving up 20 late points and it was about ten more than most fans in the crowd and at home would have liked to see. The Cardinals were once again paced by the strong arm of Teddy QB who was quickly becoming one of the best players in the Big East. Bridgewater threw for another 3 touchdowns on 23/28 passing and no turnovers. At this point in the season Teddy QB had not thrown a pick and was an astounding 72 of 88 throwing the ball. Ten different receivers were the beneficiaries of passes from Bridgewater and running back Jeremy Wright paced the Cardinals ground attack with 114 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. The Cardinals offense dominated the ball for 17 more minutes than UNC and the Cardinals steady defense accounted for two turnovers and made things difficult for UNC quarterback Bryn Renner until late in the game when they dropped back into zone. Cards would win this one 39-34 in front of the 4th largest crowd ever in Papa Johns Cardinal Stadium.

-Stop #4 September 22nd The Florida International University Golden Panthers:

This would be the toughest out of the young season for our Cards. Teddy QB had his worst showing of the season in this one, struggling early in his return to his home town. Bridgewater finished with 194 yards passing on 19-36 attempts, more incompletions than in his first three games combined. He also threw 2 interceptions and stalled a few drives with poor passes. Louisville’s D was strong in this game, a game marred with heavy downpours at times. The defense held the Panthers to 320 yards total offense and their hard hitting ways forced both of FIU’s tailbacks out of the game. While their performance was underwhelming, The Cards continued to show quite a bit of character and remained neck in neck with Rutgers as most impressive teams in the conference at that point in the season. Teddy QB had his toughest night of the season but he was determined not to let his homecoming be spoiled by the Panthers and would lead his team to the victory 28-21 as the Cards went to 4-0 for the first time since 2006.

-Stop #5 September 29th The Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles:

Louisville struggled to put away the Golden Eagles in this game. Teddy QB was average for his second straight game out as the Cardinals chose to focus on the run to get the job done on the road. Bridgewater threw for a minimal 85 yards a touchdown and a pick, those had been quarter numbers for Bridgewater in those earlier games but he was flustered much of the night in this one. Louisville got a great performance on the ground from running back Senorise Perry who had 118 yards and two touchdowns. They also got 84 yards from Jeremy Wright who continues to impress as the change of pace back. Louisville’s defense kept Southern Miss off the field and the offense commanded the clock and got the win which is all that matters. It was a gutsy effort for our young Cards to overcome such harsh conditions to get the win 21-17 as they moved to 5-0 on the season giving them their best start since 2006.

-Stop #6 October 13th The Pittsburgh Panthers:

Our Cards were impressive in getting this 10 point victory on the road vs. Pittsburgh. This game was close for most of the first half and Louisville trailed by 4 at the half. Whatever adjustments or pep talks the Cardinals received in the locker room registered as Louisville blew this contest open in the second half. Senorise Perry rushed for 3 touchdowns, including a strong 59 yard run late in the game and Louisville opened up a 17 point lead and never looked back. Teddy QB threw for just over 300 yards and a TD and was his usual efficient self. Overall, Louisville amassed 460 yards of total offense and turned in a turnover free performance. Our Cards went to Pittsburg on this Saturday morning and took care of business winning the game 45-35. With the win, the Cardinals put themselves in an elite group with only 10 other teams being undefeated at that time. The Cards were now 6-0 on the season and were ranked #16 in the AP top 25 and #14 in the USA Today Poll. This is the highest since the Cards were ranked ninth in both polls back in 2007. This was also only the 5th time in school history that the football program had started 6-0. The other years were (1925, 1957, 1972, and 2006).

-Stop #7 October 20th The South Florida Bulls:

Louisville came into this game 6-0 on the season and ranked 16th in the polls at that time. This South Florida team who has been reeling for weeks but gave the conference leading Cardinals their best shot in this one. Louisville got off to a hot start behind the strong backfield play of Senorise Perry and Jeremy Wright who scored both touchdowns in the second quarter to give the Cardinals a 14-3 lead at the half. Teddy QB was a non-factor in the first half but displayed some serious heroics in the second half. After throwing a TD early in the third quarter, Bridgewater found his team behind 25-21 with 1:35 remaining when he hit wideout Eli Rogers with the game winning touchdown. Bridgewater finished with 256 yards on an extremely efficient 21-25 passing and 2 touchdowns. The Cardinals defense had one of their worst outings of the year giving up nearly 200 yards on the ground to a South Florida team who has been plagued with a non-existent running game all year. Louisville also played in undisciplined fashion racking up 75 yards in penalties. The Bulls came to Louisville on this day with one thing on their minds. They wanted to start the second half of their season off right and spoil the Cards Homecoming. But Teddy QB and company were determined not to let that happen as they survived a gutsy effort by South Florida winning the Homecoming battle 27-25. With the win our Cards moved to 2-0 in the Big East and 7-0 on the season for just the third time in school history. The last time this had happened was in 1925 and 2006.

-Stop #8 October 26th The Cincinnati Bearcats “Keg of Nails”:

Our Cards escaped a tough battle with Cincinnati in this one with an OT victory and in doing so they would remain undefeated on the season. The Cardinals and Bearcats exchanged big play for big play and multiple TD’s in one of the most exciting 4th quarters in all of college football this season. Teddy QB continued his stellar sophomore campaign throwing for 416 yards and two touchdowns both in impressive fashion in the 4th quarter to Devante Parker. The 64 yard touchdown was followed up by an amazing 64 yards catch where Parker bobbled the pass and tight-roped the back of the end zone as he regained possession for the score. Parker finished with 4 catches for 120 yards. The defense secured Louisville’s second straight close home win as they intercepted Munchie Legaux in the first overtime and the Cardinals kicked an easy field goal for the win. The Cards sprinted toward the end zone at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium like kids at Christmas. Sitting idly on the turf was the coveted Keg of Nails, awarded annually to the winner of the Cincinnati/Louisville football game. For the first time in four years, the Cards laid their claws on the prize. Not since October 13, 2007 had UofL beaten the Bearcats. But, after four consecutive losses, the Cardinals tasted victory, winning 34-31 on a rainy, windswept evening in Louisville.

-Stop #9 November 3rd The Temple Owls:

After three straight close wins vs. conference foes, the Cardinals made easy work of a Temple team that had been trending south quickly at that time. The Cardinals racked up 508 total yards and pitched a scoreless second half effort on defense. Teddy QB was once again phenomenal. The sophomore gunslinger was 19-28 for 324 yards, 5 touchdowns and 0 interceptions the type of flawless performances we were becoming accustomed to seeing every week. Running back Jeremy Wright was equally efficient, carrying the ball 10 times for 100 yards and a TD. Wide receiver Andrell Smith had 2 TD’s from Bridgewater and Devante Parker also reeled in another one despite a quiet 2 reception afternoon. Despite giving up an opening possession 93 yard kickoff return, the Cardinals dominated the game in all facets. I was bursting with Cardinal Pride after this game and it was a “Hoot” watching our #10 Cards remain undefeated with a 45-17 victory over Temple. 20 years from now I’ll be watching a Louisville Cardinal Football game with my son and they will do a trivia segment: When was Louisville’s first 9-0 start? And I’ll smile and remember that day.

-Stop #10 November 10th The Syracuse Orange:

Our Cards fell behind 31-10 and never recovered in this one. Despite the lopsided loss, Teddy QB was once again solid. He threw for 424 yards and 3 touchdowns but unfortunately the Cardinals inability to stop the Orange on D was too much to overcome. Louisville gained under 50 yards on the ground and turned the ball over twice in the defeat. The Louisville Cardinal football team’s quest for a perfect season would come to an end on this day as the “Annoying” Orange overwhelmed the Cards in a 45-26 rout.

-Stop #11 November 24th The Connecticut Huskies:

In a 2 game stretch that was anything but a November to remember our Cards were unable to get anything going throughout the afternoon against a UConn D that had been the only consistency on their football team of the season. Teddy QB was 30-53 for 331 yards and 2 TD’s but it was his lone interception on the day that cost the Cardinals as UConn would kick the game winning field goal three plays later. DeVante Parker, Bridgewater’s intended target on the OT interception, was the lone bright spot for Louisville, hauling in 8 passes for 91 yards and 2 TD’s. Jeremy Wright was held in check to only 43 yards and Bridgewater was sacked numerous times resulting in -29 yards rushing for the QB. With the loss falling at home in triple overtime to 5-7, 2-5 Connecticut 23-20. Louisville had now lost 2 straight games after starting the season 10-0.

-Stop #12 November 29th The Rutgers Scarlet Knights:

Our Cards trailed in this one 14-3, but were able to seize the lead 17-14 with two touchdowns within 16 seconds of each other at the end of the third quater with Teddy QBs’ 14-yard and 20-yard passes to junior running back Jeremy Wright and sophomore wide receiver DeVante Parker. The Cards struck early on with a freshman punter John Wallace 20-yard field goal. Wallace won the game with 1:41 left from 29 yards away. The Cards forced three turnovers and held a commanding 42:11-17:49 edge in time of possession over the Scarlet Knights. This game would be an instant classic as Teddy QB showed us a heroic effort playing essentially with one arm and on one leg to get this victory for his team in the 20-17 comeback win. This win would give Louisville a share of the Big East Title and put them in the Sugar Bowl.

-Stop #13 January 2nd The Florida Gators in the Sugar Bowl:

Here we are Cardinal fans at the end of our journey. It sure has been a season to remember and a train ride that was more like a roller coaster. This young Cardinal football team literally weathered the storms of this season and when it seemed like they were gonna be done they kept fighting. And the reward for their efforts is a game with SEC powerhouse Florida. The only thing that kept the Gators from playing No. 1 Notre Dame for the National Championship was a 17-9 loss to No. 7 Georgia on a neutral field. So to say they are a formidable foe is an understatement. Of the Cardinals’ 10 victories six came by slim margins. I’m hopeful that carries over to playing the Gators who have embraced four one-possession wins. Florida didn’t look like world-beaters in victories over Bowling Green 27-14 or Louisiana-Lafayette 27-20. The Gators however got wins which matters most and took down the Atlanta Coast Conference Champion No. 12 Florida State 37-26. Florida has played five opponents ranked 12th or higher in the current BCS Standings, managing an impressive record of 4-1.

The Gators love running the ball down their opponents throats, and will challenge the Cards defensive front more than any team this season. The Gators are lead in the ground attack by senior Mike Gillislee. He has 1,104 yards on the season with 10 touchdowns. He had a huge outing in the Gators last game of the season against Florida St. He finished that one with 140 yards and two touchdowns. Their second leading rusher is Quarter Back Jeff Driskel with 404 yards on the ground this season with four touchdowns. Their third leading rusher is Matt Jones. He has 259 yards on the season with two touchdowns. He played perhaps his best game of the season in the Gators last game against Florida St where he had 81 yards and a touchdown. The Gators have seven players in the offensive backfield with over a hundred yards on the ground. They love to attack teams between the tackles and have plenty of size and strength to do it. If our defensive linemen and line-backers don’t come into this one ready to play its going to be a long day in New Orleans for our Cards.

The Cardinals rank nationally 24th in passing yards with 298.6 a game, 100th in rushing yards with 127.1 a game, 48th in points for with 31.0 a game, and 37th in points against with 23.8 a game.

Louisville comes to New Orleans with something to prove. With no victories against a top 25 opponent this year. This will be the very first time in the Sugar Bowl for the football program while it will be the 9th appearance for the Florida Gators.

Emotions will be high in this game as our players will come in with a chip on their shoulders and especially wanting to get this win for Coach Strong who decided to stay with his team and finish what they started. The sub plot to this game is that this will be the first time Coach Strong will face his old team since leaving Gainesville for Louisville. The Louisville fans are also ready for this one as they will double the Florida crowd and have already bought up almost 15,000 tickets. Last I checked Florida was struggling to sell 5 or 6 thousand. Turning New Orleans into LOU-Orleans has to help.

I really don’t think the Florida team will match the emotions of the Cards. Their players and their fan-base will still be pouting that they didn’t make it into the National Title game. What will be the biggest thing to ever happen to the Louisville program will be just another walk through the park for the Gators. That’s why I think they are in for a huge letdown game. Letdowns are very typical in these Bowl Game scenarios and I have seen many upsets over the years. Especially in the Sugar Bowl. I think our Cards come out and punch these guys in the mouth, they will lay down and won’t get back up. The Cards will be Sugar Bowl Champs.

The Beak Prediction:
Louisville 31 Florida 28

– Jersday Night showdown for the Big East Crown and BCS birth

Cards were out “Huskied” on Saturday but still remain in the hunt for the Big East championship and a trip to a BCS bowl game. Cards come in this game after a triple overtime loss to Uconn 23-20. They will face Rutgers who also had a let down on Saturday falling to Pitt 27-6.

Coach Charlie Strong: “We have a large task ahead of us,” “After dropping the last two games, we have to regain our focus and regain our confidence. The thing we have to realize is we’ve won nine games, and dropped the last two, but this team is still a really good football team. Now, we have to go on the road. We have to go on the road to win a championship. What’s at stake for us and what we really have to understand is we have a chance to win a conference championship. We have a chance to go play in a BCS bowl game. We also have a chance for a 10-win season.”
(Courtesy UofLsports.com)

If the Cards are to go to New Jersey and pull off the upset on Thursday night they will have to come out and have a better effort than they did on Saturday. They were not able to get anything going their way as the UConn Defense held them in check for most of the way. Teddy QB was 30-53 for 331 yards and 2 TD’s with one interception. DeVante Parker was the lone bright spot hauling in 8 passes for 91 yards and 2 TD’s. The Cards running game was completely held in check as Teddy QB was sacked numerous times resulting in -29 yards and Jeremy Wright was held to just 43 yards.
Rutgers also came out flat on Saturday in their battle with Pittsburgh. Much like UConn did with Louisville Pitt was able to control the line of scrimmage the whole day. Rutgers could only manage 207 total yards. Gary Nova was picked off once and managed a 3rd quarter touchdown. Savon Huggins and Jawan Jamison combined for just 32 yards. By laying an egg Rutgers failed to claim the Big East Title and now will face our Cards for all the marbles in a Thursday night showdown.

Coach Kyle Flood: “I think when you have the opportunity as a football program, as a coach, as a player, to do something that’s never been done in the history of your program … we are a very focused group.”

Our Cards will be limping into this Big East showdown on Thursday night. Teddy QB broke his wrist on Saturday and will be in a cast. He will only be able to take snaps in the shotgun formation while Senior QB Will Stein will take direct snaps on the plays under center. I think the biggest loss for this Cardinals football team was when Senorise Perry got hurt. I think he was more important to this team than most thought. He was critical in our rushing attack and his hard nosed play allowed things to open up for Teddy QB and the receiving core to do their thing. And I do think Wright and Lamb are very capable of giving us valuable time but you just don’t replace a player like Perry. I do think our defensive unit will hold their own and will have another solid outing.

The Beak Prediction:
Louisville 10 Rutgers 17

– The quest for a perfect season has ended but the journey to the Big East title is still ahead

Our 9-1 Cards return to the gridiron on Saturday after a loss 2 weeks ago that put an end to their hopes for a perfect season. They will face a 4-6 UConn team that is feeling better about themselves after ending a 4 game losing streak with a 24-17 win over Pitt.

Coach Strong: “We won 9 games before that loss a Syracuse. We can’t let that game beat us twice. Our focus is on winning this week against UConn.”

The Cards have had a week to regroup after the tough loss to Syracuse. They fell behind 31-10 and never recovered. Despite the lopsided loss, Teddy QB was once again solid. He threw for 424 yards and 3 touchdowns but unfortunately the Cardinals inability to stop the Orange on D was too much to overcome. Louisville gained under 50 yards on the ground and turned the ball over twice in the defeat. And even though the Cards lost their top 10 ranking, chance at a perfect season and lofty BCS standing they are still very much in the picture to win the Big East crown and go to a BCS bowl game. If they can get past UConn, they will likely face Rutgers in a season finale, winner take title showdown. UConn was able to get their mojo back after a four game losing streak. They jumped on Pitt early and never looked back. Chandler Whitmer connected with receiver Ryan Griffin for a 2 yard TD and then return man Nick Williams took a kick 80 yards to the house and UConn built a 24-0 halftime lead. Lyle McCombs had a big day for the Huskies, rushed for 120 yards and a TD on the day, and was a key reason the Huskies dominated ball control all day.

They keys to making this UConn team go are Chandler Whitmer and Lyle McCombs. Chandler is a QB that makes good decisions and is accurate with the ball. He is a former Illinois recruit who redshirted with the Illini one year, spent last season at Butler (Kansas) Community College. He directed BCC to the No. 2 ranking in the nation while throwing for 3,022 yard and 25 touchdowns with 14 interceptions. One of the staples of the UConn offense is to have a workhorse running back. McCombs has taken over that role for this Huskies squad. He earned freshman All-American honors last year. His 95.92 yards per game ranked second in the conference and 29th in the country. Nick Williams is also a guy who is a game changer. He is explosive in the return game for UConn. If he catches the ball he is always capable of making a huge play and against a Louisville team that is vulnerable in the coverage game it could happen.

Coach Paul Pasqualoni: “We have these next two games ahead of us. We’re looking forward to winning this game and coming home for Cincinnati and winning that game as well to become bowl eligible.”

Some stats very favorable for Louisville:

The Beak Prediction:
Louisville 45 UConn 17

– The Quest for perfection rolls on

Our Louisville Cardinals are 9-0 (4-0 Big East) and Cardinal Nation is “On the Train.” This weekend the train rolls into the Carrier Dome and the Cards quest for a perfect season continues as they face the Syracuse Orange 4-5 (3-2 Big East). The Orange are on a quest of their own as their backs are against the wall. With just three games left they need to win two for bowl eligibility.

Coach Strong: “Every game carries a lot of weight. This is a big road game. It’s a team that needs wins to be bowl eligible.”

Cuse comes into this game after suffering a 35-24 loss to conference rival Cincinnati last weekend. Syracuse fell apart late in the 3rd quarter and could not get anything going offensively down the stretch. Syracuse got 116 yards and a TD from running back Jerome Smith and Ryan Nassib threw for 286 yards and a TD. The Orange defense was really exposed as they gave up 165 yards and 3 TD’s to Cincy running back George Winn and despite holding quarterback Munchie Legaux in check, could not prevent the Bearcats from finding the end zone 5 times. Our Cards roll into this game after the most convincing win of the season with a 45-17 win over Temple. Our Cards dominated the game in all facets as they racked up 508 total yards and pitched a scoreless second half effort on defense. Teddy QB was 19-28 for 324 yards, 5 touchdowns and 0 interceptions in a flawless performance. Jeremy Wright carried the ball 10 times for 100 yards and a TD, Wide receiver Andrell Smith had 2 TD’s, and Devante Parker also had a TD.

Coach Doug Marrone on UofL: “It’s the best team we will have played so far.”

Coach Doug Marrone on Teddy QB: “Even with the tough out-of-conference schedule, I would say Teddy Bridgewater is the best quarterback that we will face so far this season.”

Coach Doug Marrone on his QB: “We need him to stay within himself and not try to force things.”

Syracuse has not been a dominating home team in years, Senior Ryan Nassib has always put up good numbers, but been inconsistent in clutch situations, the team has no star running back, most of the top receivers are gone, and the lines are suspect. But they have played well of late and have the players capable of pulling off this upset. The Syracuse offense has been predictable in recent years, and to hang with our Cards they will need to open it up a bit. Not only will they have to establish their running game they will also need a solid effort in their passing attack. Their defense will also need a herculean effort and apply a lot of pressure on our offense. I feel very confident about our Cards chances in this one but looming in the back of my mind is that WVU game last year. Syracuse stunned then-No. 14 West Virginia in a Big East Friday night showdown 49-23 on ESPN last October. The Mountaineers entered the game averaging 40.8 points and 500-plus total yards. The Orange hadn’t scored that many points in the series since 1960, but thrilled its largest home crowd in three years (45,265) with the lopsided conference win.

Coach Strong: “This is a big game for us at Syracuse. I think back to last year when WVU was ranked and went into Syracuse and lost. We have to be ready.”

Coach Strong on Cuse offense: “On offense, they’re balanced and they have an outstanding QB. They want to establish the run but they can pass it.”

Coach Strong on Cuse defense: They like to bring a lot of pressure. It will be a good test for us.”

Some trends to consider – Louisville is 14-4 against the spread in their last 18 road games and Syracuse is 3-10-1 against the spread in their last 14 games overall.

The bottom line is that this is going to be an emotional day for the Orange. This could be a pivotal game for their season and their head coach Doug Marrone. They have all types of gimmicks going on in the Carrier Dome on Saturday including the senior day ceremonies. But our Cards have took on every challenge this season. They have shown great resilience and I think Teddy QB will have another career performance in the dome setting. The train will keep rolling and our Cards will get the victory and move to 10-0.

The Beak Prediction:
Louisville 45 Syracuse 21

– The Owls are coming to town Saturday and it could be a hoot for Cards Fans

The Temple Owls come to town this weekend and it could be a real “HOOT” for our Louisville Cardinals. They have a shot to go to 4-0 in the Big East and 9-0 on the season for the first time in school history. In 94 seasons of football our Cards have never reached this mark. Our Cards are currently ranked 10th in the ESPN/USA Today Coaches and 12th in the Associated Press Poll. And they took a huge leap to rank 10th in the BCS standings.

Coach Strong: “We have played well in spurts and, if you watch us offensively, we have been able to take the ball, in most games that we have played, and go score with the opening drive. And defensively, we end up giving up a score. You would like to see us put together a complete game – offense, defense, and then the kicking game.”

Temple enters their second consecutive big east road game after getting manhandled at Pittsburgh this past weekend 47-17. The Owls big running back Montel Harris did gain 72 yards and a TD for the Owls, but he was the only guy with any significant production on the day. The Owls usually mobile Quarter back was eaten up by the Pitt lineman as he only had 22 yards in rushing. He also had a nonproductive day passing the ball as he only threw for 143 yards and one TD. They did have huge success in one area that should be a concern to Louisville fans. Running back Matt Brown tallied 120 yards on 3 kickoff returns. Our Cards had issues last weekend stopping UC on punt and kickoff returns. They will need to improve their susceptibility to the big return this weekend. Our Cards come into the game on Saturday after a thrilling overtime victory against UC. The Cardinals and Bearcats exchanged big play for big play and multiple TD’s in one of the most exciting “Battle of the Keg” games I’ve ever seen. Teddy QB continued his remarkable sophomore campaign throwing for 416 yards and two touchdowns both in impressive fashion in the 4th quarter to Devante Parker. The 64 yard touchdown was followed up by an amazing 64 yards catch where Parker bobbled the pass and tight-roped the back of the end zone as he regained possession for the score. Parker finished with 4 catches for 120 yards.

The Owls have been competitive in most all of their Big East games something that has come as a surprise to many who thought it would take a year or two to adjust. Temple was a Big East member in football only from 1991 to 2004 but was forced out because the program was one of the worst in major college football. The Owls failed to meet minimum requirements for membership, most notably in attendance, facilities and fielding a competitive team. Eight years later, Temple is a competitive program, and the Big East, in need of football-playing members after the departure of several schools, invited the Owls back into the fold.

Coach Steve Addazio:“There are so many positive things going on with this athletics program, this football team, this university and the city of Philadelphia as a whole,””Temple is a great place to be right now.”

Coach Steve Addazio: “Our staff will be one of the best, if not the best coaching staff in the Big East Conference,” “I’m thrilled to go into battle with them.”

Only nine starters are back from last year’s nine-win team. But Temple’s most important returnee could be head coach Steve Addazio who is affectionately referred to as “Vitamin A” because of his high-energy nature on the practice field, on game days and on the recruiting trail. Addazio replaced Al Golden at Temple in December 2010. He was the former Florida offensive coordinator and at one time was on the same coaching staff with Coach Strong.

Temple is taking a step up in weight class from the MAC to the Big East, and they are trying to prove that they won’t be the league’s punching bag. To have a shot against our Cards the Temple D will need to wake up quickly. After yielding 530 yards to an average Pitt offense, the Owls will now face a much more productive squad in our Cards who can both air it out and get yards on the ground in chunks. They will also need a big day from their stud running backs Montel Harris and Matt Brown. QB Chris Coyer will also need to do his part on the ground and through the air. It is important to note that our Cards have been soft against the run the past few weeks, and Temple is a run first offense.

Coach Steve Addazio: “Chris has really grown into a leader on our football team,”” His ability to move the sticks with his arm and his legs is invaluable and make him perfectly suited to run our one-back attack, as well as some two-back sets.”

Addazio on Senior Matt Brown: “Matt Brown is a very good running back,” “He’s one of the leaders on our football team and I think he’ll be one of the best backs in the Big East.”

As we all know Hurricane Sandy caused major problems on the East coast and did cause some problems this week with Temple’s game preparation. There was a lot of uncertainty surrounding Temple’s practice week since Hurricane Sandy forced the university to shut down on Monday and Tuesday. During Monday’s Big East coaches teleconference Addazio said “Preparation-wise, we are absolutely in a flat scramble right now,” “Trying to get our game plan together, our practice together.” “What we get done, we get done.”
(Courtesy Philly.com)
Who knows if this will have any effect on our game on Saturday but I did think it was important enough to mention in my pre-game write up.

Even though this game has all the makings of a classic trap game. I really have no concerns as our Cards have faced much adversity this season and seem to always battle out of it. Our Cards boast one of the conference’s best players in Teddy QB. Running back Senorise Perry and wideouts DeVante Parker and Damian Copeland are also among the league’s elite players at their positions. And free safety Calvin Pryor and middle linebacker Preston Brown are regarded as two of the league’s best defensive players. After boasting an 8-0 start I have no doubt that these guys will get the job done. I fully expect Temple to come in and have a great game and that it will be a battle. They all have been battles. But Our Cards will get the win and make history by going to 9-0 on the season.

The Beak Prediction
Louisville 52 Temple 21

– Ah, Keg of Nails week. I love the smell of nails and kegs in the air.

On Friday night we shall witness a battle for the coolest trophy in all of college sports: the KEG OF NAILS. The origins of this super masculine emblem of greatness are shrouded in legend, but some date the tradition all the way back to 1929. However, some say it originated in 1922. Due to a scheduling conflict, UC was supposed to play both Louisville and West Virginia on the same day. They decided the West Virginia game was more important and sent a JV squad to play the Cardinals. Louisville won, thus claiming the “first” victory however, UC does not recognize this game because its varsity team did not play.

The origin of the Keg of Nails moniker is somewhat murky but rumor has it fraternity members from the University of Cincinnati and the University of Louisville decades ago originated this funky name. As legend has it the keg, or barrel, of nails was used as an item of pride between the fraternities from opposing campuses to signify that the holder of the coveted award was as “tough as nails.” Essentially, the so-called keg of nails was a physical representation of the toughness embodied in the simile, “Our football team is as tough as nails.”

My favorite moment in this rivalry was on November 27, 2004. UC came in at 6-4, 5-2 in C-USA, Louisville at 8-1, 6-0. Before the game, the Bearcats decided it would be a great idea to jump on the Cardinal bird logo at midfield. What a mistake that turned out to be for the Bearcats. Louisville commenced the blowout immediately and would score on the first play of the game as Eric Shelton run up the middle for 80 yards. The Cards piled up 357 rushing yards and 491 total yards in the complete romp winning the game 70-7.

This year’s chapter in the battle for the keg could have been a special one as both teams would have been undefeated. But Cincy had to ruin the ultimate keg party by losing 29-23 to Toledo this past weekend. Cincy QB Legaux had arguably his worst outing of the season completing 15-36 passes for 227 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. The Bearcats rushing attack was solid the entire game as Legaux and running backs Ralph Abernathy and George Winn racked up 250 yards on the ground and one TD. Cincy’s defense also did a decent job as they limited a potent Toledo attack to 355 total yards. The Bearcats were done in by a defensive touchdown, a 91-yard kickoff return late in the game and 5 field goals from Toledo kicker Jeremiah Detmer. Louisville comes into this game having taken care of business against a South Florida team that gave them all they wanted. Beating them 27-25 to go to 7-0 on the season and 2-0 in the Big East. Teddy QB was a non-factor in the first half but displayed some serious heroics in the second half. After throwing a TD early in the third quarter, Bridgewater found his team behind 25-21 with 1:35 remaining when he hit wide out Eli Rogers with the game-winning touchdown. Bridgewater finished with 256 yards on an efficient 21-25 passing and two touchdowns. Senorise Perry and Jeremy Wright had solid performances. The Cards defense took a step back giving up nearly 200 yards on the ground to South Florida.

The Bearcats will have to put the Toledo loss behind them quickly as they prepare for Friday’s contest against our conference leading Cardinals. With still no losses in Big East play, the Bearcats have plenty goals left on the season. Cincy will try to put pressure on the Cardinals defense and will need to get pressure on Teddy Bridgewater in order to have a chance in this one. The UC defense has some potential, but like its offensive counterpart will need some younger players to step up. A lot of UC’s good fortunes rest on Legaux, who must become more accurate and reliable as a starting QB. Cincy is not considered a likely 10-win team, as it was in 2011, but coach Butch Jones is building a foundation for success that will serve UC for years to come. He has talent, and he is getting some leadership.

Coach Jones: “Everything is about building a foundation,” “Every year is a new challenge. It’s a different team. Each team has a different identity. But we have started the expectations and the formula for winning. A lot of players in the program understand the expectations.”

Our Cardinals boast two rushers ranked among the top seven in the Big East in Senorise Perry and Jeremy Wright. They will need to continue their season’s performance against Cincy. But perhaps the biggest key to getting that glorious Keg of Nails back in the Cardinal trophy case lies with Teddy QB’s ability to put the pressure on a Cincy defense that ranks third from the bottom in the Big East in passing yards allowed per game (229.8). Our defense will also have to meet the challenge of stopping a Cincy offense that is improving every game.

Coach Strong: “We’re going to have to play pretty good defense, because I know their quarterback is a runner and a thrower.”

I look for a close contest for most of the game then Teddy QB and company will take things over late as Louisville rides the momentum of a very loud Papa Johns Friday night crowd. Cards will move to 8-0 on the season and hoist the Keg of Nails high.

The Beak Prediction:
Louisville 33 Cincinnati 24

– The Beak Preview: Louisville vs. South Florida

After 35 days on the road, our Cards return for Homecoming weekend to face the South Florida Bulls. Our Cards have been on a roll and have a chance to start 7-0 for only the third time in school history. South Florida is on another path. They have been one of the most disappointing teams in College football. After returning pretty much their entire team, including key players from injury last season, the Bulls have stumbled to a 2-4 record and a 0-2 start in the Big East.

Charlie Strong: “It’s good to always come back home to our place,” “I tell our players, now that we’re home; we have to defend our home stadium.”

If you look back to Big East Media days most had this game marked on their schedules as a must watch. They were picked 1 and 2 in the preseason Big East Polls. But it sure doesn’t look like that marquee match up now. Louisville comes into this game 6-0 on the season, ranked 16th in the AP Poll, and 14 in the USA Today Poll. The Cardinals were once again impressive this past Saturday, securing a 10-point victory on the road vs. Pittsburgh. Senorise Perry rushed for four touchdowns and Teddy QB threw for just over 300 yards and a TD and was his usual efficient self. Louisville had 460 yards of total offense and a turnover free performance. They did all of the things you have to get wins on the road. South Florida enters this game coming off a bye week. Before the bye week, South Florida fell at Temple for their fourth straight loss after a 2-0 start to the season. Quarterback BJ Daniels threw for 219 yards, a touchdown, and a pick but continues to get little help from any
other skill players.

South Florida is deep, fast, and mature. They have 45 guys on their roster that have earned at least one letter. But the big question mark for this team is finishing games and stopping the run. They will rely heavily on their QB BJ Daniels who is having a good season throwing for 1,504 yards and 10 TDs while ranking second on the team with 277 rushing yards and 4 scores. Our Cards have had issues this season with a scrambling quarterback so this could be interesting.

Skip Holtz on his QB: “He’s incredibly athletic and extremely talented. He’s got a lot of different skill sets as a quarterback. His biggest growth has been developing mentally, understanding the offense and playing within the system. He’s gotten past what to do and is getting into how to do it. That’s what you have to have to be a great player.”

Our Cards have a 6-5 record in October and have won three in a row in the 10th month under Coach Strong. The Cards have at least two rushing TD’s in each of the six games this season. Teddy QB has 19 throws that have gone for better than 20 yards in the last six games.

The Beak Prediction:
Louisville 31 South Florida 24

– The Beak Preview: Louisville vs. Pittsburgh

The Cards have had their bye week and now prepare to take to the road for an early morning game with nemesis Pitt at Heinz Field this Saturday. Since joining the Big East the Cardinals and Panthers have locked up seven times. With the first three contest going to the Cards and the last four going to the Panthers. Our Cards are off to their best start in six years and look to go 6-0 for only the 5th time in school history. But it won’t be an easy task against a team that has had their number lately.

Coach Strong: “We’ve had a week off and now we’re ready for the real season the conference season. It’s a one game season each week.” “It’s all about the conference race right now. We can’t afford to slip. The Pitt game is our 1st league game, so we must be ready to go.”

Strong on Pitt: “With a new coach , early in the season they were trying to find themselves. They were impressive in the win over Virginia Tech.”

Strong on staying unbeaten: “It’s challenging to stay unbeaten. The key for us is taking one game at a time and not look too far down the road.”

O-Lineman Jake Smith on Pitt: “They’re a good team. They’re tough and they’re smash mouth. We were a little flat against them last year, so we have to be ready.”

The University of Pittsburgh welcomed another new coaching staff this offseason after Todd Graham abruptly left the program, and this one has a very strong Wisconsin flavor with head coach Paul Chryst and his staff spending the last 7 seasons in Badger land. Chryst is trying to bring a smash-mouth, old-school running attack from the Big Ten to the Big East and instill a sense of blue-collar work ethic. QB Tino Sunseri has his top three wide receivers and his tight end back from last season, but he will also be breaking in a new pair of offensive tackles a season after Pitt quarterbacks were sacked 63 times.

Coach Chryst on challenge of coaching players that are once again having to prove themselves to a new staff: “I’m not a hard guy to gain respect from,” “None of us know what the limit is, and if you set that bar at a certain limit then you might be short-changing them. You appreciate and see them progress. Why are you going to set a bar here if it’s supposed to be higher? You just keep going. Are you the best you can be? You don’t know so you have to keep working.”

Pittsburgh comes into this game after a very close loss to Syracuse in the Carrier Dome last week. The Panthers were not able to capitalize on a few drives late in the second half that ultimately cost them the game 14-13. The loss puts Pitt at 0-2 in the Big East. The Cardinals enter this game coming off their bye week and a 21-17 win at Southern Mississippi the week before. Louisville struggled to put away the Golden Eagles in that game. Teddy Bridgewater was average for his second straight game throwing for a minimal 85 yards a touchdown and a pick. The Cards had a great night on the ground as Senorise Perry had 118 yards and two touchdowns. Jeremy Wright also had 84 yards.

The Pitt team thrives on turnovers and in their only two wins this season they were able to force 7 of them. In order for them to give our Cardinals a challenge, they will have to get turnovers and rally in front of their home fans with arguably their toughest test of the season coming to town. And in order for our Cards to keep rolling the 18th ranked defense will have to keep doing their job as they are yielding only 18 points per game to opponents. Teddy QB will also need to return to the guy we saw through the first three to four weeks of the season when his name was being included in early Heisman discussions.

Food for thought: Panthers are 6-0 against the spread in their previous six home games vs. an opponent with a winning road record. The Cardinals are 4-0 against the spread in their previous four games in October.

Pitt has had our number lately and they are a very tough team at home. But I look for the Cards defense to be very solid after having a bye week to prepare and also think Teddy QB returns to his early season form. Cardinals will win in a tough one and move to 6-0 on the season.

The Beak Prediction:
UofL 34 Pitt 21